BigBody, Author at Pale Ale Travel

14 of the Best Things to Do on Hong Kong Island

March 3, 2025March 3, 2025Destinations BigBody Leave a Comment

Hong Kong Island is the ‘Big Kahuna’ of launching points in Hong Kong when it comes to exploring Asia’s ‘World City’. So much so that you’d be hard-pressed to find a Hong Kong travel itinerary that doesn’t consist of a substantial chunk of activities, experiences, and restaurants being on ‘the Island’.

You’ll most likely take the Airport Express to the city center (aka Central), there’s a high probability you’re hotel is between Sai Ying Pun and North Point, and we both know that a driving force behind your trip was because of an Instagram reel you saw of the sourdough egg tarts at Bakehouse. I can’t blame you for that at all. As a seven-plus-year resident of the city, I still line up with the best of them for these buttery, flaky, calorie-dense saucers of perfection.

The beauty of Hong Kong is that while yes, there are certain activities and experiences that may be slightly more geared towards tourists than residents, oftentimes, you’ll find both groups at the same place, doing the same thing, eating at the same restaurants, walking the same walk, and talking the same talk (not literally, as I don’t speak Korean).

That’s a testament to (a) Hong Kong’s inescapable density, and (b) the fact that if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. To ensure that you don’t dejectedly Charlie Brown-walk your way to HKIA feeling like you missed out on the full Hong Kong experience, here are the 14 best things to do on Hong Kong Island.

All are activities that both my friends and I regularly partake in so if you see a balding, stocky man in his mid-thirties with egg tart custard all over a one-size-too-small cat graphic tee, don’t be afraid to say ‘Wazzup!’ like Ghostface in Scary Movie.

Your Guide to Visiting Hong Kong in April 2025

February 25, 2025March 31, 2025Destinations BigBody Leave a Comment

April in Hong Kong is jam-packed with events, an undeniable energy, and palpable shifts in the weather. Spring in Hong Kong has finally arrived.

It’s in full force.

April is the ‘calm before the storm’ weather-wise (so to speak) in Hong Kong, meaning residents and tourists alike pack in as many activities (hiking and swimming for the win(, experiences, and meetups as they can before summer and its unbearable heat and humidity roll into town.

Unlike March, April is a mix of liveliness and restfulness thanks to two national holidays, the first being the reflective Qing Ming Festival (Tomb-Sweeping Day), and the second being the one-two punch of Good Friday and Easter Monday. There are also several other festivals and major events in Hong Kong in April, which I’ll cover below.

Finally, April is the tail end of cherry blossom and rhododendron season in Hong Kong. While not as universally known or as revered as Japan’s, both provide much-needed color to Hong Kong’s already beautiful natural landscapes and a ‘scavenger hunt’ blueprint to explore the city.

For me, it’s one of my most social months in Hong Kong, and the perfect time to visit for anyone who doesn’t want a single experience off limits, as you can pretty much do it all.

So that you maximize your trip to Asia’s World City and don’t miss out on anything, here is everything you need to know about visiting Hong Kong in April 2025.

9 of the Best Siu Mei Restaurants That Aren’t Yat Lok

February 18, 2025March 31, 2025Asia, Destinations, Food, Hong Kong BigBody Leave a Comment

First, let’s get the elephant in the room out of the way. No, I am not hating on Yat Lok at all. I will always have love in my heart for it. Like my stern yet warm Puerto Rican girlfriend who kept me grounded during my angsty years in Catholic high school, it has shaped who I am.

Rather, instead of ensuring my dress shirt was tucked in and my remedial math homework was completed (to the best of my ability), Yat Lok gave me my first taste of roast goose and other siu mei excellence after first moving to Hong Kong in 2012. It gustatorily shaped my siu mei baseline and instilled a burning love in me for uncompromising ~~Latinas~~ char siu.

I think I overstepped there.

The point is, I love siu mei. So much so that I have mentally blocked out the fact that char siu (BBQ pork) might (allegedly) be carcinogenic. I’ve also blocked out that siu yuk (crispy pork belly) may or may not cause my heart to give out thanks to its plenitude of glorious, sapid saturated fats.

So, without further ado, here are 9 of the best siu mei restaurants in Hong Kong that aren’t Yat Lok.

Visiting Hong Kong in March 2025

February 13, 2025March 16, 2025Destinations, Hong Kong, Travel BigBody Leave a Comment

March is one of the most happening months in Hong Kong. It’s when the city picks back up after the Chinese New Year holiday, ready to enter into the full swing of things once again. With no national holidays in March, cooler yet shifting temperatures, and the infamous (annual) Hong Kong Sevens rugby tournament, residents and tourists alike make the most of the final months before the city enters into heat and humidity lockdown mode.

It’s one of my favorite months in Hong Kong.

Unsurprisingly, March in Hong Kong is a transition month between winter and spring. In the first half of March, cooler temperatures, low humidity, and manageable rains mean that nearly every activity and inch of the city is your oyster, ripe for the picking.

It’s safe to say that March in Hong Kong is the city’s most artsy and creative month, as it plays home to numerous literary fairs, art exhibitions, music festivals, and other concerts. Most notably, the world-renowned contemporary and modern art fair, Art Basel, comes to town to highlight both international and Asia-Pacific works across a diverse range of galleries and museums.

However, the end of March in Hong Kong is a crucial time of the month to pay attention to as travel becomes slightly more unpredictable and expensive thanks to the arrival of the Hong Kong Sevens (and hundreds of thousands of spectators), sneaky hot and rising temperatures, all-consuming humidity, and increased rainfall.

As one of the busiest and most social months of the year, March is the perfect time to visit Hong Kong for those who love hiking and exploring the outdoors, enjoy world-class art, literature, and performances, and want to experience the apex of the city’s energy and joie de vivre.

P.S. The feature image is from Sun Kwai Heung BBQ Food in Chai Wan – one of my favorite Cantonese BBQ (siu mei) spots in the city.

Pale Ale Travel Tip: If you’re looking for a more seasonal breakdown of what you can expect when visiting Hong Kong, make sure to check out my comprehensive guide ‘When is the Best Time to Visit Hong Kong?’.

My Fifth Month’s Earnings on Mediavine Journey [January 2025]

February 12, 2025March 12, 2025Blogging, Travel, Travel Tips, Tricks, & Resources BigBody Leave a Comment

Big Body here. Back with another monthly income report. I’ll keep this one short as not much seems to be moving at the moment, especially since I embarked on a 7-week self-imposed moratorium from Hong Kong and headed back home to New Hampshire.

It was much needed as I was somewhat throttled by Google’s December update and needed some time to recollect and re-strategize.

I’ve just returned to Hong Kong and am looking forward to getting back to a more regular publishing routine.

To get a picture of what my first months on Mediavine Journey looked like, including important terms I use to describe earnings, make sure to read these past articles:

So, here is exactly how much my travel blog earned on Mediavine Journey in January 2025.

5 New Hampshire Breweries For Hoppy Suds Excellence

February 11, 2025February 19, 2025Beer & Breweries, Destinations BigBody Leave a Comment

Having made the trip back to my home state for a 7-week stint after nearly 5 years away, I had no idea what exactly was in store for me. I had a feeling that it would entail home-cooked food, walks with my mother and brother, and most importantly, good booze. I far underestimated and forgot just how much of a gem this state is for all three.

Great food and exceptional booze couldn’t have rung any truer at the handful of breweries I made sure to visit with both my mother and brother. These were undoubtedly some of the key highlights of this 2025 New Hampshire sojourn.

Not only were these five New Hampshire breweries some of the best beer haunts I’ve ever come across in the Granite State but they were some of the best I’ve ever imbibed and gourmandized anywhere in the world.

Now, with your mouth watering, your hands shaking, and the full moon craft beer call only a thirty-something millennial could face slowly transforming you into a carnal, rabid, boozehound version of yourself, here are 5 breweries in New Hampshire that mash some of the meanest hops in the game.

Pale Ale Travel Note: Don’t hesitate to comment or email me your favorite brewery/breweries in New Hampshire! I’d love to hear from you.

17 Unique Things to Do on a Rainy Day in Hong Kong

February 3, 2025March 31, 2025Asia, Destinations, Hong Kong, Travel, Travel Tips, Tricks, & Resources BigBody Leave a Comment

As someone who considers himself more of a ‘house cat’ than an ‘outdoors’ one, I welcome rainy days. They’re an excuse for me to justify not moving from my couch, combing my hair, or even putting on pants. You can find me in shorts on most days in Hong Kong.

However, I know there are plenty of you out there who like to carpe diem every single day. I applaud you and aspire to be you…one day. So, I know darn well that a little bit of rain ain’t gonna stop you. The word “rest” isn’t even in your vocabulary.

You’re David Goggins, reincarnated as a SoHo socialite and expat, and he isn’t even dead.

Or, maybe it’s your first time in Hong Kong and you want to ensure that no day goes to waste. After all, staying in your Hong Kong hotel cubicle all day with your partner has an 80% chance of making this your final trip together.

Fortunately, Hong Kong’s subtropical climate and frequent downpours, including ‘Typhoon Days’, means that the city and its residents know how to get down and boogie when it’s “bucketing down.” You know, when it’s “raining cats and dogs.” When it’s a real ‘frog-strangler’ out there. That last one is new to me and I now plan to make it a part of my daily (limited) vocabulary.

So, bust out those chic Le Chameau rain boots and Patagonia rain jacket you just ordered online because here are 17 things to do on a rainy day in Hong Kong.

Visiting Hong Kong in February

January 30, 2025March 31, 2025Asia, Destinations, Hong Kong, Travel BigBody Leave a Comment

Visiting Hong Kong in February is the ideal time of year for tourists who might otherwise be put off by Hong Kong’s hot and humid temperatures in the summer, want to take advantage of all outdoor activities the city has to offer, and want to experience one of Hong Kong’s biggest festivals – Chinese New Year.

However, it is one of the most expensive months due to the coming of the Chinese New Year, which generally occurs anywhere from the end of January to mid-February. The Lunar New Year holiday also means ‘downtime’ on certain days, where residents spend the day and night with family, and shops, restaurants, and bars are closed.

It can be a somewhat tricky time of the year in Hong Kong to navigate but I assure you it’s well worth it – especially watching the Chinese New Year Day Parade with mesmerizing dragons, traditional Chinese dancers, and vibrant floats that weaves through Tsim Sha Tsui (TST) and the Chinese New Year fireworks in full display over Hong Kong’s iconic skyline and Victoria Harbor.

Personally, February is one of my favorite months of the year, next to October and November. I have a feeling it might just be the perfect time for you to visit Hong Kong.

Pale Ale Travel Tip: If you want a breakdown of what traveling to Hong Kong at every point in the year looks like, make sure to check out my post ‘When is the Best Time to Visit Hong Kong?’.

30+ Fun & Surprising Facts About Hong Kong

January 27, 2025March 19, 2025Asia, Destinations, Hong Kong, Travel BigBody Leave a Comment

Having lived in Hong Kong for nearly 7 years (hint: I’m still here), I’ve “been around the block” once or twice when it comes to exploring and getting to know the city. It’s my home. It’s where I feel most comfortable. And it’s where I’m betting on for the future.

However, after all these years, I’m still discovering countless quirks, facts, and sites. It’s endless.

As I typically write more serious and practical posts, I thought I would list out some fun and surprising facts about Hong Kong. These were all (mostly) unbeknownst to me before first traveling to and moving here.

So, here is your daily dose of Hong Kong inspiration with these 33 fun facts about Hong Kong.

I have a feeling that more than a handful will have you making that shocked Pikachu face all the youngsters like to post online these days.

What Currency Does Hong Kong Use? A Complete Guide to the Hong Kong Dollar

January 11, 2025March 24, 2025Asia, Destinations, Hong Kong, Travel, Travel Tips, Tricks, & Resources BigBody Leave a Comment

Hong Kong is a special administrative region (SAR) of China that has its own currency, which is called the Hong Kong Dollar.

Below, I’ll explain what Hong Kong’s currency is called, provide an overview and brief history, its names in both English and Chinese/Cantonese, and how it’s identified in local and international transactions (denominations, symbols, abbreviations).

My Fourth Month’s Earnings on Mediavine Journey to End the Year [December 2024]

January 6, 2025February 19, 2025Blogging, Travel, Travel Tips, Tricks, & Resources BigBody Leave a Comment

Well, that’s a wrap for the 2024 season of blogging. There were highs, there were lows, there were befuddlements, and there were lessons learned.

You can find the earnings reports for my previous three months on Mediavine Journey here:

Once again, I recommend checking out Part 1 (September) if you want a breakdown/easy explanation of the metrics and terms I use in every earnings report.

So, without further ado, here is exactly how much my travel blog earned in the month of December on Mediavine Journey.

Taipei vs. Hong Kong For Expats: Which City is Right For You?

January 4, 2025March 24, 2025Asia, Destinations, Hong Kong, Travel BigBody Leave a Comment

Hong Kong and Taipei are two popular cities that emerge as top contenders for expats considering moving to Asia thanks to a mix of thriving professional opportunities, personal and social growth, and a plethora of other practical considerations (I’m looking at you low tax rates!).

Having lived in Taipei, Taiwan for over 3 years and Hong Kong for nearly 7 years (hint: I’m currently living in HK) both cities have been incredibly formative both professionally and personally for me, with each providing distinct and unique (and memorable) experiences, vibrant cultures, and unparalleled advantages that have ultimately made my life richer and more fulfilling.

However, they differ significantly in key areas such as cost of living, professional industries, lifestyle, and overall environment. And, in my humble opinion, they cater to two very different types of expats.

Below, I’ll break down the key factors you should consider when asking yourself if Hong Kong or Taipei is the best fit for you.

So, whether you’re drawn to Hong Kong’s solidified and storied reputation as a global financial hub or Taipei’s eclectic blend of modernity, tradition, and island charm, this article will help you evaluate critical aspects that may be most important to you.

So, without further ado – Hong Kong vs. Taipei for expats – which city is best for you, your career, and your family? Let’s find out.

Factors	Hong Kong	Taipei
Cost of Living	One of the most expensive cities in the world.	Affordable across the board, specifically housing and necessities.
Professional Opportunities	A leading global financial hub that’s home to high-demand sectors like banking, law, and insurance, with no cap on professional growth.	A foreign job market underpinned by English teaching and other jobs in education, with a growing tech and entrepreneur scene.
Quality of Life	A high-pressure and demanding city that comes with long hours but surrounding nature and no shortage of activities to mitigate.	A more balanced and relaxed existence where you can clock-in and clock-out to enjoy surrounding nature and cultural events.
Education	World-class competitive international curricula that can cost a pretty penny.	An ideal destination for families seeking Mandarin immersion along with high global standards.
Expat Communities	The most eclectic expat community in Asia (and a top global city).	A small but inclusive expat community that is primarily centered around Anglophones and native English speakers.